Austin Seferian-Jenkins has the size and talent NFL scouts look for when they’re drafting a stud tight end for the next level. However, the former potential first round pick has had some off the field issues, while an injury has also negatively impacted his 2014 draft stock.

Quite a few teams could use a big, athletic target at the tight end position, however, and Seferian-Jenkins has the tools to be a true difference-maker for his next team. Let’s break him down and see how he projects to the next level as we prepare for the 2014 NFL Draft:

Strengths

Freakish size and length

Elite athlete for the position

Good leaping ability

Huge target and a force in the red-zone

Great catch radius, will win most jump balls

Pretty solid route runner already, will only get better

Fluid athlete who can make plays with the ball in his hands

Utilizes spin moves and jukes quite well in the open field

Sees ball into hands, showing great focus and concentration

Adjusts to ball in mid air very well

Solid overall build and strength

Excellent control

Underrated blocker

Weaknesses

Despite being a great athlete he doesn’t have blazing speed

Not overly explosive off the snap, acceleration is just average

Could stand to get stronger and use his size and weight more against defenders

Can be a bit passive at times

Has more of a finesse game

Decent blocker but there is certainly room for improvement

Durability and conditioning are in question

Foot injury has hurt his stock

Summary

Seferian-Jenkins is a high upside prospect who has the necessary tools physically and athletically to be a special tight end at the next level. In the right offense, he could easily turn into a great player. He does have some consistency issues and will need to improve as a blocker, but there is little standing in his way of becoming a very good player in the NFL. He’s arguably a first round talent, but a foot issue should drop him into the second or third round.